This was a very convincing story, that kind of filled in some details not mentioned in Croggon's books. It made me, actually, kind of melancholy at first, then you turned it into an uplifting fanfic. Awesome job!

What you have created here is not only the answer to a mystery many of us have long pondered- Clavila's death- but also a beautiful way of welcoming recovery, as long of a road as it may be. It captures the grief, somewhat dulled by time, of a mother, especially be focusing on regrets and images rather than simple pain. The ending wraps up Silvia's pains while leaving room for a later story (when Maerad returns, how that might affect her).

Your elegant words always invoke emotion in my heart; with a style reminiscent of Croggon, you could really be very successful as an author- I know I'd read any book you wrote!

That was so full of emotion! You say you're jealous of my writing, and yet I am jealous of yours.

I like the characterization of Clavila, and the ending. I find the flashback sort of interrupted the flow of the rest of the story, but really, that's just me being picky. Perhaps keep the description and dialogue level with that of the rest of the story. A minor suggestion of course. It was lovely. :)

That was perfect. I loved the way most of the story took place in Silvia's head, and Silvia has always been one of my favourite characters, despite how much we parody her in the upcoming Pellinor Musical. I liked how you added some background to the unknown story of Clavila...I really should be doing my Biology...

This is a well-crafted story, Kim. I like the way you've brought the characters to life, evoking Silvia's sorrow as well as her love for Maerad.

I have a few minor niggles for you:

it felt as if the barrier between the Uncircled Open and this world was completely impenetrable, like a solid wall barrING her from looking upon the Paths of the Dead where she knew her daughter wandered

The [nostalgia] GUILT Silvia felt for letting Maerad leave Innail

They're not massive, it's just me nitpicking.

It's a beautiful piece of work, and the psychological issues of grief and guilt are well-woven into the text. It's believable and lyrically written. Happy writing!